The gala opening ceremony began with the arrival of the guest of honour President Mrs. Pratibha Devisingh Patil, Prince Charles, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and hosts of dignitaries. The extravaganza opened with the playing of the Indian national anthem. A dazzling display of fire works set the tone for the light and sound show. The sound of drum beats reverberated at the stadium as thousands of artists played the drums of various sizes, having the spectators spell bound.